History of the museum

The Gunnison County Pioneer and Historical Society had its beginning in 1880 with the early pioneers who settled in the Gunnison Valley. The Pioneer Society was reorganized and incorporated as a non-profit organization in 1930.
From its beginning the society stated its interests in preserving the history of the pioneers of Gunnison County and by 1964 the Pioneer Museum was finally begun.

The Board of the Society oversees the operation of the Museum which is staffed mostly by senior volunteers who provide guided tours to visitors from all 50 states as well as over a dozen countries.

The Museum grounds, its 12 buildings, the artifacts and memorabilia that make up the many displays, have been donated by generous members and friends of the Society. Most of the items on display date back to the early settlers. The Museum’s collections truly represent the cultural history and heritage of the people of Gunnison County.

In addition to the Museum, the Pioneer Society also owns the Aberdeen Quarry which is located on Beaver Creek just a few miles from Gunnison. Granite from this Quarry was used in building the Colorado State capitol. As part of the summer program at the museum, Jeep tours are scheduled to provide an opportunity to visit the historical site